Why You Need To Master Writing a Perfect Proposal

Every freelancer needs to know how to craft a great proposal

Whether you are just starting out with freelancing but are not sure how to break in, or you have been freelancing for years and are coming to the end of a project, the art of writing a good proposal is just something every freelancer needs to master. It is an essential part of your career and can make the difference between getting good projects or struggling to land enough work to live off of.

Here are 10 tips that will help you create a proposal that helps you stand out.

1. Make It Personal

Right from the beginning, one of the most important steps you take is to make your proposal feel like it has a personal touch. Do as much research about your potential client as you can. Check out their social media handles and study their company to get a feel for who they are and what they value. The client wants to know that you would give them proper attention. Personalizing the proposal shows you are capable of doing that. Using a phrase like “To Whom it May Concern” can feel distant, try to get a real name or just introduce yourself as if you are having a conversation. If they have given you any specific details make sure you mention those throughout the proposal, they were given for a reason.

2. Start With a Bang

Freelance sites are competitive. The client you want probably has received 50 other proposals. Have you ever had to read through a pile of CV’s? It’s draining, so make sure the most important things you want them to take away are in the first few lines. Just the highlights, not your whole work history, just the most important things you want them to know about you.

3. Get Into The Project

Now tell them how you would handle their project. Make sure you included any details they mentioned.

4. Include a Timeline

Time is money so make sure you mention how quickly you would complete the work.

5. Make It Visual

This is where you can really stand out. Pictures are far more eye catching, plus they allow you to show a sample of your work. Don’t provide your whole portfolio just a few samples and if you can customize it just for them, even better.

6. Tell Them Why You Are Right For The Job

Tell them why you think you are the best fit for this project specifically.

7. Provide Costs

Even if you don’t have all the details you can help them move along to a decision by including some costs such as your hourly rate.

8. Ask Questions

If they haven’t provided you with some key points about the project make sure you add any questions you might have. Again, it shows your attention to detail and helps them problem solve.

9.Provide Your Social Media Handles

This is a great way for a potential client to get to know you and see more of your work! Make sure they are professional in nature.

10. Add in a Call To Action

Suggest a virtual meeting on a certain day and time to show you are eager and willing to move forward. Keep it slightly casual, “like I would love to explain what else I can do for you, why don’t we schedule a quick chat”. Include a way to easily get in touch with you, Google chat or Skype are easy to use and most people are familiar with them.

For more samples of proposals we think look great, check out these links;

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